We are lucky, there is no conscription now, no draft to force us to the frontline. Everyone who chooses to go is a volunteer. The reasons they sign up are myriad. Some are there for adventure, some for patriotism and many for a sense of service / duty
These days the wars we fight are confusing and morally questionable. No obvious foe as we have had in the past. Now it is shadowy opponents, a “war on terror” and the demonisation of a global religion. We lose our liberties to government as they spy on citizens in order to “protect” us from this nebulous threat. You have to wonder who would volunteer for that?
In all honesty I’m not sure it was any less confusing during my service, the first gulf war had no clear outcome, the former Yugoslavia breaking up and ethnic cleansing taking place whilst NATO wrung its hands.
One thing has always been constant though, the bravery and sacrifice of all who serve. And I don’t just mean the men and women in uniform. I also include the support services, the “rear echelon” and the families left behind. I’m comforted that such volunteers still come forward to defend and protect us.